Danny Stubblefield 1969-2008 – Award-winning runner passes at 38

Longtime runner Danny Stubblefield passed away unexpectedly at the young age of 38. Stubblefield, who was known as McMinnville’s premier distance runner during his heyday, could be seen running through the streets of McMinnville on a daily bases through out the past 15 years.

His passion for the sport was exemplified not just by the number of races he won, but by his effortless strides and his God given talent. In other words, he was born to run.

Although he was a modest and humble athlete, he was highly regarded by his piers as one of the top long-distance runners in the state.

One of his many accomplishments came in 1992 when he earned a gold medal in the men’s 5,000-meter run in the 19-24 age category at the third annual Tennessee Sportsfest.

That same year he captured first place in the Family Fitness run in Nashville with a time of 16:01, and also won first place in the Franklin Classic 10K. He finished second out of a field of 600 runners in the Budget Music Row Road Race.

He found enjoyment in running in the McMinnville Stars and Stripes 5K Fun Run each Independence Day, and captured numerous first-place trophies. In 1990 he blew away the field of 60 runners when he crossed the finished the line with a time of 15:52. He won the event in 1997 with a time of 16:23, and again in 2000, crossing the line at 18:49.

He was also known for his enthusiasm about life and his concern and dedication to the well-being of others. He always had the time to lend a friendly ear and brighten the lives of others with his warm smile.

He never found a hill too steep or a road too long that he couldn’t conquer.

The staff of the Southern Standard extends its condolences to the entire Stubblefield family.